Saturday, May 5, 2018

Last week, I volunteered at a 5K. My official job was to keep runners walking once they crossed the finish line, and to make sure that they weren’t in medical distress. My unofficial job wound up being telling spectators to get off the course so the runners could come through.

I’m embarrassed to say that in over a dozen years of running, that was my first time volunteering. I’m glad I did it, even if the same spectators kept stepping into the finish area despite my telling them as politely as I could to stand behind the cones. Watching all those runners come through made me want to race again very soon.

But I’m no expert, so if you plan to volunteer at an event, here are five tips from Erika Amaya, senior manager of volunteer operations for the New York Road Runners, on how be a good volunteer, and how to make the most of the experience.

Dress for the weather – and for standing around in that weather. In winter races, “you’ll be less active than you are while running the race,” she said, so running tights and running shoes probably won’t cut it on very cold days. For warm weather events, take water. “It’s as important for you to stay as hydrated as the runners,” she said. Other things you may want to take: a fully charged cellphone, snacks and sunscreen.

Read volunteer materials “and then read them again,” she said, so you know where you should be and when.

Be patient. “You may get the same question a thousand times, but the runner asking doesn’t know that. A quick answer with a nice smile goes a long way,” she said.

Shake it off. “Though this rarely happens, if a runner is rude or disregards instructions, just shake it off,” she said. “They may be having a rough day, and it probably has nothing to do with you.” If someone is becoming a problem, she suggests you note the runner’s bib number, walk away and report it to the volunteer captain. That person, event staff or security is also where to report spectators who won’t listen.

Have fun. Volunteering is a great way to do something positive with people you know – or make new friends, she said. And don’t forget to cheer for the runners. “If you’re placed on the course, don’t be shy. Shout out words of encouragement for as long as your voice can handle it. Smiles and high fives help, too.”

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